NPA frees 6 hostages in Agusan del Sur
DAVAO CITY – Six militiamen held captive by communist rebels since December last year were freed on Thursday in Barangay San Juan in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur.
Joaquin Jacinto, spokesperson of National Democratic Front of the Philippines-Mindanao, said the release was a “gesture of goodwill” despite the government’s failure to suspend military operations.
The NDF added that the release of the hostages proves that it is still open to resuming peace talks with the government.
The hostages – Eddie J. Tindoy, Benbinido A. Lamyon, Hermilito M. Iligan, Julian B. Gabiola Jr., Sony M. Malubay and Marson C. Iligan were released on Thursday afternoon.
They were captured after the rebels overran a military detachment on December 19, 2018 in Barangay New Tubigon in Sibagat, Agusan del Sur.
Bishop Delfin Callao Jr. of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) who acted as the third-party facilitator brokered the release.
Article continues after this advertisementThe Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Eastern Mindanao Command said the six militiamen were turned over Thursday evening to the 401st Infantry Brigade in Purok 12-A, Poblacion, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur. / gsg
